UEFA Enforces New Rule for Goalkeepers Holding the Ball: A Corner Kick for More Than 8 Seconds

Starting today, the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in Slovakia marks the implementation of a new rule for goalkeepers holding the ball for more than eight seconds. According to the International Football Association Board (IFAB) and UEFA, the referee will award a corner kick to the opposing team if a goalkeeper holds the ball for longer than eight seconds. This replaces the previous indirect free kick for holding the ball beyond six seconds. The visible five-second countdown will be used to signal the final portion of the time limit, aiming to provide clarity and consistency in the application of the rule.

Key Takeaways:

• The new rule, approved by IFAB on 1 March 2025, ensures consistency in the application of Law 12.2 of the Laws of the Game.
• Goalkeepers will have eight seconds to control the ball without being challenged by an opposing player, after which a corner kick will be awarded to the opposing team.
• A visible five-second countdown will be used to signal the final portion of the time limit, giving goalkeepers and referees clear guidance.
• Opponents obstructing the goalkeeper during the countdown will result in an indirect free kick being awarded in favor of the goalkeeper.
• This rule will apply to all UEFA competition matches starting from today.
• The introduction of this rule aims to enhance the fairness and clarity of the game.

Statistics:

• 8 seconds: the maximum time a goalkeeper can hold the ball before a corner kick is awarded to the opposing team.
• 5 seconds: the length of the countdown used to signal the final portion of the time limit for the goalkeeper.
• 1 March 2025: the date on which IFAB approved the amendment to Law 12.2 of the Laws of the Game.

Sources:

• Azeri-Press news agency

*ernational Football Association Board (IFAB)

• UEFA European Under-21 Championship in Slovakia
• uefa.com